Singer-songwriter and author Cindy Morgan has launched Roho Records and entered a distribution partnership with Syntax Creative.
The label’s first major project is The Sounds of Jubilee, a collection of songs inspired by the characters and events in Morgan’s debut novel, The Year of Jubilee.
Set in the South during the early 1960s, the coming-of-age novel follows a young girl named Grace as her family and community confront grief, racial tension and long-buried secrets.
Morgan said her background as a songwriter made it difficult to imagine the story without music.
“I just couldn’t imagine not including music as a part of the novel,” Morgan said. “That prompted me to create a soundtrack inspired by the main characters of the book, with a song from each of their perspectives.”
The rollout began July 14 with “Jubilee,” featuring Tommy Sims. “Tame,” featuring Phil Madeira, is scheduled for release Aug. 11, with additional singles leading toward the full album.
Listen to music from The Sounds of Jubilee.
Syntax Creative CEO Timothy J. Trudeau said Morgan’s work across music and literature made Roho Records a natural addition to the company’s distribution roster.
“Cindy is a wellspring of creativity,” Trudeau said. “Her songs are like fine art, so it’s no surprise that she wrote an entire book and then wrote a soundtrack to accompany it.”
Morgan has earned two Grammy nominations and 13 Dove Awards, including recognition as Songwriter of the Year. Her songs have been recorded by artists including Vince Gill, Amy Grant, India.Arie, Rascal Flatts, Ricky Skaggs, Glen Campbell, Michael W. Smith and Point of Grace.
Syntax Creative marketing coordinator Erin Moorman said the same storytelling instincts are evident in both Morgan’s songs and fiction.
“She truly transports the listener and reader to a different place,” Moorman said. “I can’t wait to see where she takes us next.”